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43 Commando complete their element of the Royal Marines 1664 Challenge
14 July 2017
Royal Marines from Faslane-based 43 Commando Fleet Protection Group completed their seven days in support of the Royal Marines 1664 Challenge on finishing the 16.64 mile leg at the Glasgow Warriors' Stadium at Scotstoun.
Over the last seven days, the 16.64 mile daily run has been conducted in the Ben Nevis ranges, from Achnacarry finishing at the Commando Memorial at Spean Bridge, along the banks of Loch Lomond, in the grounds of the Erskine Veterans Home, through Helensburgh and finally along the banks of the River Clyde to Scotstoun.
Over the period the runners from 43 Commando have completed nearly 100 miles and have brought the two core runners, Corporal Jamie Thompson (42 Commando) and Corporal Will Gingell (1 Assault Group Royal Marines) closer to their 1,664 mile target which they will complete at Buckingham Palace on Wednesday, August 2.
Colonel Jock Fraser MBE, Commanding Officer of 43 Commando was at Scotstoun to greet the runners at the end of the final leg.
I am delighted to be here to see the finish of the 43 Commando contribution to this unique challenge
"I am delighted to be here to see the finish of the 43 Commando contribution to this unique challenge. The Royal Marines Charity supports those serving, veterans and cadets and makes a tremendous difference to the well-being of all members of the Corps family," said Colonel Fraser.
"I am also very pleased to be here at the home of the Glasgow Warriors with whom we have enjoyed a great relationship for over two years and I thank them for their support today."
Glasgow Warriors Assistant Coach Kenny Murray said: "What this group of Royal Marines have achieved is hugely impressive. We have trained with them previously and their levels of fitness are extremely high.
"It's great for them to complete their challenge here at Scotstoun and no doubt all of the players will be inspired by how far the 43 Commando have pushed their bodies and minds."
The 1664 Baton will now travel with Corporals Thompson and Gingell and 43 Commando's Regimental Sergeant Major Warrant Officer 1 Jim Twycross to be handed over to 24 Commando Engineer Regiment in Chivenor.
Those still wishing to donate to the Royal Marines 1664 Challenge should visit:
www.justgiving.com/fundraising/43commando
or text GLOB17 £5 (or amount you wish to donate) to 70070.